Tiwi Art Sale and Footy Grand Final
The word 'unique' is thrown around a lot – but in the case of the annual Tiwi Art Sale and Footy Grand FInal, it captures the essence of the day perfectly.
Footy and art aren’t generally viewed as complimentary flavours, but on the Tiwi Islands 80 kilometres north of Darwin, they’re just part of the bread and butter of everyday life.
Step off the plane or ferry and you’ll find art is everywhere, on public building walls and in the burial grounds filled with carved ironwood totems. And AFL football is never far either with Essendon football jerseys and barefoot kids kicking balls around in the dust a staple.
These two great loves come together at Wurrumiyanga on Bathurst Island in what is for many locals the biggest day on the calendar. Visitors are welcome – it’s the only day of the year you can go to the island without a permit – and are invited to join the crowds as they go wild for the fast paced, flamboyant athleticism that Tiwi players are famous for.
Chat with local artists while you buy a carving, painting, hand-printed fabric or basket at wholesale prices – and you’ve got yourself one of the most unique experiences the Top End has to offer.
WHEN SUN 19 MAR | ART SALE BEGINS 9AM | FOOTBALL GRAND FINAL 1PM | WURRIMIYANGA, BATHURST ISLAND
INFO flytiwi.com.au | sealinknt.com.au
Image: Alan Kerinauia with ‘Ampitji' (Rainbow Serpent)
